Check Out the Weight Loss Plan Components Page

Over the upcoming weeks and months I’ll give you my thoughts about the behavior change planning process.  I have added a page to this blog, the Weight Loss Plan Components page,  that gives an overview of the components of most behavior change planning.  Even though it’s focused on weight loss, it’s useful for whatever behavior you are trying to change.  Weight loss is a little more complicated than most others since it usually includes behavior changes in eating and exercise. 

By the way, think of behavior change as habit change.  Most of the healthier lifestyle activities that we want to add to our lives require changing or stopping our current not-so-healthy habits or behaviors.  Usually the best way to stop one behavior is to substitute another healthier one for the unhealthy one. 

Since you are reading this, you are at the very least considering making some behavior change.  Starting to build your plan will require you to consider why you want to make your change and how will you know you’ve succeeded.  It’s best to spend the time writing your own behavior change plan before you take action.  On the next post, we’ll talk a bit more about goals and motivation.

Regards,

Dr. Bob



Goals and Motivation – What’s In It For You!

In preparing your Behavior Change Plan, it’s important to set a measurable, attainable goal along with a goal date.  The goal date is when you plan to reach your goal.  If you are trying to lose weight, it may be to lose 20 pounds within the next 3 months.  Someone who smokes a pack a day may set a goal of completely stopping in 6 months.  Whatever you choose, it’s best to write it down and share it with people who will support you as you make your changes. 

 

In addition to defining your goal and goal date, you should understand your motivation for making these changes.  Is it for your health?  Is it to better enjoy life with your family?  Is it to get into that bathing suit this summer?  Whatever it is, you should write it down and look at it frequently as you implement your Behavior Change Plan.

 

Please share some comments and motivations to change that you found effective in your own life.

 

Dr. Bob

 

 


Planning Makes Sense – Have You Tried It?

When making changes to lose weight, increase exercise or stop smoking many doctors, health coaches and advice books state that developing a plan for change is essential.  I agree with that approach.  You should set attainable goals with a target date and plan how exactly you are going to make the necessary changes to attain your goals.

What do you think?  Have you ever used such a plan?  What other tricks do you have to share?